“The 18-year-old has been pursued by City for some time but Sporting wanted £8m plus add-ons. Now, with one year left on contract, clubs are trying to strike a better price.”

As if that wasn't enough speculation to digest on a Monday morning, a final story - emanating from the same source - suggests the Blues will face competition from Cardiff for the signature of reported target Oscar Cardozo of Benfica.

“A move to Fenerbahce fell through after they failed to agree on wages and the 30-year-old is also on Manchester City's list of potential targets," writes David Kent.

“However, City have yet to make a bid and Cardiff are weighing up their next move as they try to add a proven goal scorer to go alongside Andreas Cornelius their £8m signing from FC Copenhagen.”